Synonyms for DOPE -- to wit, OAF, ASS, DODO, MORON, CLOD, DINGBAT, LOUT, SAP, CHUMP and DUNCE -- are "inside" the entries of COCOAFLAVOR(23A. Feature of some kids’ cereals);GASSTATION (29A. Regular provider); PLACIDODOMINGO(37A. Holder of the world record for the longest ovation on the operatic stage [80 minutes]);HUMORONESELF(60A. Let the mind believe what it likes);MASONICLODGE(76A. Bastion of brotherhood);READINGBATTERY(98A. Elementary school test package);FALLOUTFIT(109A. Dress for the return of cool weather);WORLDSAPART(117A. Not even close);PACIFICHUMPBACK (3D. Alaskan cruise sighting); and SEEMEDUNCERTAIN(46D. Wasn’t clear, as one’s future).

Comments, observations, et cetera: Many of the clues for common-word entries are border-line in their application, e.g., Brush makeup = SAGE; Unpadded = TERSE; Parter of the waters = OAR; Some tubes = MACARONI; Poor returns? = ALMS; Not fair = WET, and others. SNOG makes its second appearance this week after it’s much-noted debut. SPERM and OVA (see links for 80A and 51D) will unsettle some and titillate others. SOSA, RARA, ANKA, GIGI, ETTU, UNTO, ETAL, AGOG, COLA, lead the parade of two-syllable/two-consonant/two-vowel entries. It takes some doing to find a LOUIE link where he’s not posed with his fellow triplets, Huey and Dewey (see link for 16D). I can’t image what an 80-minute ovation must be like, other than biologically. The crossing with the most resounding thud -- SQUAB and TOQUE. The entry I had the biggest urge to give a link to, but resisted: 12D. Lover boy?,EROS.

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